JA Worldwide announced that Vivek Kumar will serve as the next President and Chief Executive Officer of JA Asia Pacific. He joins at a pivotal moment, as the region with over 60% of the world’s young people is central to JA’s mission of equipping youth with the skills and confidence to succeed.
Vivek brings more than 20 years of leadership across the private sector, public service, and international NGOs. He most recently served as CEO of WWF-Singapore, where he strengthened strategic priorities, expanded partnerships, and advanced initiatives such as pioneering carbon finance programs. These experiences align closely with JA’s model and opportunities for regional scale.
Born and raised in Bihar, India, Vivek experienced firsthand the impact of education on opportunity and economic mobility, shaping a lifelong commitment to preparing youth for work, community and the challenges of the modern world.
Before WWF, he held senior leadership roles at multinational companies, including Shell, and at Singapore’s Labour Movement, progressively taking on broader responsibilities. Known for stepping up to complex challenges Vivek has consistently focused on education and youth development throughout his career.
JA Asia Pacific is one of JA Worldwide’s most dynamic regions, reaching millions of young people each year through programs in entrepreneurship, work readiness and financial literacy. Under Vivek’s leadership, the organization will continue to expand digital and hybrid learning, strengthen industry and government partnerships, and build local leadership to prepare youth for the future of work.
JA Asia Pacific Board Chair PG Raghuraman shared his confidence in Vivek’s leadership: “Vivek sees a significant opportunity for JA Asia Pacific to make an impact in the region and its growing young communities. An avid reader, he brings a deeply thoughtful, values-driven approach to leadership and is focused on strengthening how innovation, partnerships, and emerging technologies can expand opportunities for youth. We are delighted to have him join us at JA.”
JA Worldwide CEO Asheesh Advani emphasized the importance of Vivek’s appointment: “JA Asia Pacific is central to our global mission. With the majority of the world’s youth living in this region, the opportunities and responsibilities for preparing young people for meaningful work and economic participation are immense. Vivek’s experience leading impact-oriented transformation across sectors as well as his commitment to youth opportunity, make him the right leader for JA Asia Pacific.”
JA Worldwide is a leading global nonprofit for youth, providing over 23 million hands-on learning experiences each year in more than 120 countries. Alongside its regional branches, including JA Asia Pacific, the organization empowers young people with the skills and mindset needed to succeed and contribute to thriving communities.
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